Cookstown councillor suffering from long Covid hails new service

A COOKSTOWN councillor still suffering from long Covid one year after infection, has welcomed a new service to address the catalogue of health problems caused by the virus.

On Monday, the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for patients with long Covid were launched across Northern Ireland.

GPs and hospital consultants are now able to refer patients to these assessment clinics. Clinics will provide patients with advice on how to manage their condition and refer them to other services where necessary. They will also provide treatment to long Covid sufferers including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing.

UUP councillor Trevor Wilson said he happy to see steps being taken to help those affected.

Mr Wilson who contacted Covid 19 in October last year, did not feel like himself until February of this year and continues to suffer from its effects.

He said, “I still suffer from breathlessness or if I am doing something strenuous my voice starts to go hoarse and disappear which is not good for a politician.

“I’m ok but there are a number of people out there who are suffering from long Covid and they are really struggling, for them it is completely debilitating, so these treatment clinics will be a really good thing to try and help those people.”

Health Minister Robin Swann has said that establishing these clinics for people suffering from long Covid has been a priority.

Mr Swann said, “The clinics will allow people to have a comprehensive assessment of their condition and will help them access the services and expert advice they need to support them in their recovery.”

referral

GPs can refer patients to these clinics if they consider their symptoms to be as a result of long Covid irrespective of whether or not they have previously tested positive for Covid 19.

Mr Swann said, “work is well advanced,” on other services for people suffering from long Covid including a pulmonary rehabilitation and dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms after contracting Covid 19”.

He said, “I will continue to review services on an ongoing basis to ensure the best possible help and advice is available for those suffering from post Covid 19 symptoms.”

Meanwhile, after meeting with senior health officials on Monday to get an update on the booster jab programme, Minister Swann has stated that he expects to see a significant increase in the number of people receiving their booster jabs in the coming days and weeks.

Those aged 50 or over who had their second jab at least six months ago can book an appointment with a community pharmacy if they did not want to wait to be contacted by their GP.

A number of pharmacies will also be providing walk in appointments.

By Rebecca McGirr